CurrentReport Blog In a surprising turn of events, Nigeria’s star striker Victor Osimhen took to Instagram over the weekend to publicly express his frustration with former Super Eagles assistant coach Finidi George. The outburst followed Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic, which Osimhen missed due to injury.
During the Instagram live session, the Napoli forward lashed out, revealing he had lost respect for Finidi George. This reaction was sparked by rumors alleging that the former Enyimba manager had questioned Osimhen’s commitment to the Nigerian national team. Despite various attempts from friends, fans, and teammates to defuse the situation, Osimhen’s anger was evident.
Among those urging calm was former Manchester United and Nigerian international Odion Ighalo. In a comment on the live stream, Ighalo advised Osimhen to “calm down and end the live,” a plea aimed at helping the young striker de-escalate the situation and avoid further controversy.
Despite Ighalo’s advice, Osimhen stood his ground, insisting on his right to defend his integrity. “I am a grown man, fearless,” he declared, showing no signs of backing down from his position.
Victor Osimhen, who has been pivotal for both his club Napoli and the Nigerian national team, has been under the spotlight not just for his on-field prowess but also for his outspoken nature. His absence from the crucial World Cup qualifiers due to injury was a significant blow to the Super Eagles, and his recent comments have added fuel to an already sensitive situation.
Reports of Finidi George’s alleged remarks about Osimhen’s dedication have not been substantiated, but they have clearly struck a nerve with the player. The incident highlights the challenges faced by professional athletes in handling public perception and media scrutiny.
Odion Ighalo, now retired from international football, remains a respected figure among Nigerian footballers. His call for Osimhen to “calm down” reflects his experience and understanding of the pressures faced by players at the highest level. Ighalo’s own career has seen its share of highs and lows, making his advice to Osimhen particularly valuable.
For Victor Osimhen, the path ahead requires balancing his passion and assertiveness with composure and professionalism. As the Super Eagles look forward to more challenging fixtures, the unity and focus of the team will be crucial. Osimhen’s role, both on and off the pitch, will be integral to Nigeria’s success in their quest for World Cup qualification.
